German military readies for potential conflict with Russia ups readiness over next 5 years
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius believes that changes in the German military are imperative, given the unlikelihood of ruling out a Russian attack on a NATO country. He asserts that it is feasible to bring the German army to a heightened state of readiness for such a radical scenario within approximately five years.
9:33 AM EST, February 11, 2024
Carsten Breuer, the General Inspector of the Bundeswehr, holds a similar position. "This doesn't imply that war will ensue, but it is feasible," he said, "Welt am Sonntag."
Breuer insists that Germany must quickly undertake this preparation process. "We don't have an infinite amount of time. Considering the military might that Russia manifests, I say: we must be prepared for war in five years," asserted Breuer.
The inspector elucidated that war readiness surpasses defensive readiness. "It entails more than the readiness of personnel and materials. It also necessitates a mental shift that we must embrace, " the military official commented.
This transformation demands not only the Bundeswehr's participation but also that of the entire German society. The inspector noted how citizens are often taken aback when military personnel discuss war readiness.
As Breuer noted, the ultimate goal is to "defend ourselves effectively, thereby increasing the risk an invading enemy would face. It's about deterrence."
Breuer added that, for reasons of security, the specific preparatory measures and the affected areas must remain confidential. Certain planned Bundeswehr operations can be initiated now, while others must wait "for about three or four years".
Breuer assured that the German Armed Forces and NATO are undergoing massive transformation. In accordance with this, the German inspector maintains ongoing dialogue with the supreme NATO commander in Europe, American General Christopher Cavoli, as he stated in an interview with "Welt am Sonntag".
Germany aims to have a 35,000-strong armed force at an exceptional state of readiness, with qualifications that align with the new NATO deterrence and defense strategy. A modernized, equipped, and trained division of a new nature is expected to be formed by 2027.
NATO’s Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg expressed to "Welt am Sonntag" the Alliance's need to rapidly revamp and broaden its armaments industry to ensure adequate provisions for Ukraine and to cater to its own needs. He believes that NATO should anticipate a prolonged confrontation with Russia that may last a decade. German politicians are deeply serious about this suggestion and aim to focus on this sector's growth.
Source: "Welt am Sonntag"
